Tips to make small space feel big

Date Published: Feb 02 2009

Living in a small space can be quite challenging, but there are ways to make any home feel more spacious. You can live comfortably in a small area and stretch the square footage by making the space work for you.

11 tips to help make the most of small spaces:

Be cool: Light and airy colors will help small spaces feel just a bit larger. Stick to cool colors like blue and green.

Go monochromatic: Think soothing tone-on-tone for paint techniques, fabrics, and patterns. Cream and white, icy blues, pale greens, and butter yellows are just a few of the combinations that can open up a small room.

Keep it open: Whenever possible, arrange furnishings to open up areas of floor and avoid blocking views to windows and doors. The farther you can see into, and through, a space, the larger and more open it will seem.

Make a match: Consider painting or staining some of your furniture to match your walls. Even large chests and armoires will seem to melt into the background when finished in a color that's close to the wall tone. Add tone-on-tone stencil details to doors for added interest.

Clear the table: Bring in some see-through style by using glass tables. They'll provide useful surfaces as dining or end tables, yet practically disappear in a visual perception of the room.

Find two-in-ones: Maximize space with furniture that serves multiple functions. Some headboards double as bookshelves, for example – or try an ottoman with built-in storage space, which can also function as a coffee table.

Live large: A few larger pieces of furniture will reduce the visual clutter that can result from several smaller items. Stick with simple lines and shapes to create a sense of calm and space. Avoid small artwork. Larger pieces can make the space feel larger.

Keep it simple: Cover sofas and chairs with plain or textured upholstery rather than vibrant prints. Neutral tones in lighter colors will usually make a room feel larger.

Reflect your style: Add sparkle and reflection to your space with mirrors. Place mirrors on a wall opposite the windows to increase light and reflect outside scenery.

Go to great heights: Take advantage of the height in your room. Install shelves all the way up to the ceiling.

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